I invite you to see the building of the Academy of Theater, Music and Arts on 111 Mateevici street as a hidden treasure and a symbol for all other under-cared, beautiful buildings across Chisinau's city center.Â
Unfortunately, there are too many historical buildings in Chisinau that look abandoned or are in decay, but one can notice how beautiful they could be and see their potential. So I am trying my best to stay focused on their potential and that's why I call them hidden treasures. My top treasure is the building of the Academy of Arts, which dates from the late 19th century and has great historical value for the Moldovan people. If you manage to visit it, take a moment to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere from the front garden, which is usually open to visitors.Â
When in Chisinau, I challenge you to go on an old-building treasure hunt and try to spot the beauties that now remain hidden under years of degradation.Â
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Chisinau guide.
"Raw Cafe" is probably Chisinau's only raw vegan cafe. They have amazing desserts - my favorite one is made with peanuts and dried figs!
By
"Valea Morilor Panorama Point" in Chisinau makes for an excellent hiking trail, especially in summer! Not many people know about it, so it's secluded...
By
"Belgian Mussels" in Chisinau is all about seafood and mussels, and their specialty is the boiled mussels. It's ideal for a casual dinner with friends!
By
"Pegas Restaurant" in Chisinau is a chain of restaurants. Their chicken soup is famous, but I recommend the shakshouka...
By
"CoffeeMolka" is a classic hidden gem. I've lived more than 20 years in Chișinău and I only discovered this coffee place set up like a museum last year!
By
"Sincer - Gastro Market" in Chisinau means 'honest' - it's a great place to enjoy tea, coffee or juice & I love their brunch. Try the chicken with peach!
By
"Il Forno" makes the best pizza in Chișinău and I can attest to that. It embodies well the special relationship between our countries...
By
"Hidden Bar" is the best place in Chisinau to dive in for a few hours and lay back with a shisha or a great cocktail!
By
"Vegan Phi Restaurant" in Chisinau is a vegan restaurant with amazing main dishes, even if you're not vegan! Try the cauliflower steak...
By
"Smokehouse" in Chisinau is a community place with lots of locals and internationals. It's a beer haven with pub quizes on Tuesdays and great food!
By
"Cehov Square" is a green, renovated square in Chisinau in front of the theater. It was the first crowdfunding project of its kind. It's so relaxing!
By
"Marlene Bar" in Chisinau might not even have the best cocktails in town (although I like them), but the atmosphere of this European-style bar is worth it!
By